Open Toes and Tights
Don’t you find that—the deeper winter pulls us in, the more we fantasize about donning the skin-bearing and limb-freeing pieces we lovingly reserve for warmer months? I hope I’m not the only one who tries on my favorite breezy frocks and heeled sandals when it’s snowing outside, just because. Maybe it’s an unknowing result of the New Year closet bingse—a sort of distraction when bidding farewell to the old. Perhaps my time could be spent on something more useful—but it’s hard to shake the seasonal itch for a little summertime fantasy, for something a little bare. So what’s the compromise for the cold and grey months? Hosiery and heeled sandals.
The combo isn’t exactly groundbreaking (street style icons Alexa Chung and Maryam Nassir Zadeh have rocked this look for a decade plus), but when compared to the heavy trousers and chunky sweaters that become winter’s uniform, tights and open-toed heels feel fresh. When done well, this particular pairing makes a splash. But some precaution is warranted when it comes to the nitty gritty of sporting style.
First off, avoid showing the toe seam of your stockings, especially for transparent hose. Tuck those babies under your foot for a polished minimal look.
Choose heeled sandals. After all, this look is, “fashion-girlie in the city,” so delicate stilettos, chunky heels, and peep toes are perfect for pounding pavement (aesthetically speaking). Save your espadrilles and cork wedges for the beach this summer.
As for tights—take your pick from transparent, opaque, and wooly for an easy-to-wear option. Prints and special details (like sequins) command the spotlight, so coordinate your shoes accordingly! It’s a look that can feel equally paired back and minimal, or skew bold and baroque.
Step into our picks, below.
